THE HON. WARREN SNOWDON MP
Minister for Defence Science and Personnel
Thursday, 7 August 2008
102/2008
NAVY HEADS BUSH FOR THE VARIETY BASH
The Minister for Defence Science and Personnel, the Hon. Warren Snowdon
MP, today wished well a team from the Royal Australian Navy as it headed off
on the 2008 New South Wales Variety Bash.
Mr Snowdon said the team was swapping the ocean for the bush to
participate in this years Blacktown to Batemans Bay Variety Bash and raise
money for childrens charities.
The team will travel via Mildura to Murray Bridge in South Australia before
returning along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria and finishing in Batemans
Bay, Mr Snowdon said.
I commend the Navy and their personnel for taking part in this great charity
event. The Navy has participated in the NSW Variety Bash for the past 6
years and has raised more than $250,000 to assist special needs Australian
children.
Mr Snowdon said eight Navy personnel would travel in two cars this year an
HR and an EH Holden.
The team has raised more than $50,000 for Variety this year. Its another
example of the Navys commitment to our community and to helping sick,
disabled and disadvantaged Aussie kids, Mr Snowdon said.
During the 4,000km journey, the Navy team will also visit schools to talk
about careers in the Navy and the opportunities that exist.
Commander Bryan Parker and Lieutenant Commander Graeme Wong will
lead the Navy contingent, while actor Matt Holmes from Channel 9s Sea
Patrol will travel with the team.
LCDR Wong said it will be a great way to show off the Navy and help
Australian kids with special needs at the same time.
The bash is an opportunity to get out into the bush and help those in need
while having a bit of fun along the way, LCDR Wong said.
Once again weve done up our cars with a Navy theme. The EH is decked
out as a Navy Helicopter while the HR is in the shape of a Navy Frigate.
This attracts a lot of attention as we travel from town to town.
Media Contacts:
Kate Sieper (Warren Snowdon):
02 6277 7620 or 0488 484 689
Lieutenant Commander Graeme Wong
0412 256 918
Dane Svenson Defence Public Affairs NSW
0411 203 579